A new study has found that many kids' new backpacks and some of their supplies may contain higher levels of toxic chemicals than the government allows in most toys.

The study found a whopping 75% of children's school supplies contain high levels of phthalates, which are potentially toxic.

A press release said:

"School supplies are supposed to help our children with their education, they shouldn't be harming their health. We don't allow high levels of these toxic chemicals in children's toys and we certainly shouldn't allow them in back-to-school products. When kids take their lunch to school this fall, they shouldn't be carrying it in a lunchbox laden with toxic chemicals."

Phthalates are a class of chemicals that are used to soften vinyl plastics, just like in those cool kids' backpacks with their favorite characters on them.

The chemicals have been linked to asthma, ADHD, birth defects, diabetes, early puberty, infertility and obesity.

So maybe just get your kid a normal backpack, or a nice leather satchel for back to school.